Should I consider upgrading to Windows 7 or 8, since XP support is ending soon?

I have three machines running Windows XP with very few problems, but I see that Microsoft will soon stop supporting this operating system in 2014. I know it is a probably a bit early to ask since we just started the new year, but I wanted your thoughts on this. Do you think I should start considering the move to upgrading my systems to Windows 7 or 8 for safety and security reasons? Or to remember the old adage "if it isn't broke, don't fix it." What would you do? Thanks.

For once, I would actually call a change of MS o/s an upgrade, but generally I would say "if it ain't Brice, don't change". There have been many new MS o/s's that I have considered to be a backstep, certainly as far as speed is concerned.

I also recently switched my home/office computers to Windows 7, and like it better than Windows XP. Boot time is faster, networking wirelessly is easier, etc. However, my 5-year-old Sony VAIO laptop, while it will run 7, doesn't have compatible video drivers and the screen is smaller as a result. Older computers may not be able to handle 64-bit architecture and thus will not be able to take full advantage of Windows 7. Research to see if your hardware can run Windows 7. If not, you might want to wait a year or so and then do the switch. Definitely avoid Windows 8 on desktop systems, especially if you run multiple monitors as I do, or laptops without touchscreens.

Hi, appropo your experience with your Vaio, I had a similar issue with a Samsung X15 (circa 2002), the internal Intel graphics chip wasn't supported by Win7 but I was able to define a slightly different Intel graphics chip to it and although it leaves an unsupported VGA driver in Device Manager, it works just fine. Depends on what graphics chip you have, of course - I found a link to mine on the web.

As far as the upgrade is concerned, the machine was much more responsive running 7 when compared to XP and I certainly wouldn't go back! I have one occasional problem that I haven't been able to solve yet. Sometimes, when shutting down, the process never completes, just sits there "Shutting Down" and flashes the disk light about every 20 seconds or so. The machine is effectively shut down because if I force it with the power button when it's in this state, the next reboot doesn't flag an unexpected shutdown. Doesn't happen very often, so I'm not too bothered about it.

I tried to install Windows 8 on this machine but failed. The DVD runs as far as the four blue square logo and just hangs. Running it under Windows 7, it got further but failed on a reboot quite late on in the process (according to the progress bar). The Windows 8 partition wouldn't boot and as a bonus, it wrecked my Windows 7 system! Naturally, before I started the process, I took a full up to date backup of the Win7 system and had it restored in 10 minutes! Thanks, Microsoft, I'll let others fix the "giant mobile phone" version!

In summary, then, yes go to Win7 but maybe keep an XP partition until you've checked everything out. Of course, XP isn't going to self destruct next year and it is pretty solid. Your choice.

Yes - if your hardware supports it and if your applications will run or will run with an update.

The reason is simple - system security. XP has so many security patches that it is hard to predict what will fail next. Microsoft has upgrade advisors for both Windows 7 and 8. Run them and determine what the impact will be you your system from an upgrade.

If the impact from an upgrade will be too severe, it is likely time to give serious thought to either replacing your computer or switching to a version of Linux.

"if it isn't broke, don't fix it." Be patient and leave well-enough alone for awhile longer until you finally discover important reasons strongly revealing why you should-must change!!!! I am still using old XP-pro installed on a newer Athon system and feel very content for now as long as everything is still running well and safely. Good luck with your XPs!!!!

I agree with gary969. I've been running XP on 2 PC;s with lots of software for years and never had a failure or a problem with security. I always run in a sandbox and back-up regularly and have never had to do a back-up (had to do a few system restores due to bad 3rd party software crap). I'm sticking with XP at least until MS returns to a PC based system. LOL's.

For what it's worth, I would consider it's time for an upgrade. XP, for what it's worth, is rather long in the tooth.The real questions you need to ask yourself would be: "What do I have on my system that I can't live without?" and "Which operating systems are they compatible with?" For what it's worth, I've got Windows 7 and I took part in the Windows 8 Consumer Preview. I spent the best part of a year using Windows 8 and there are a lot of good things in it. It's fast, it comes with an enhanced Windows Defender (Really Microsoft Security Essentials) that does a pretty good job of keeping you safe. BUT... Some of the apps I use daily don't work too well with Windows 8. It's not so much Microsoft's fault - more a question of how the apps were designed originally (They're vintage XP era apps). So the best thing to do is to get ahold of the Microsoft Upgrade Advisor for Windows 7 and the Upgrade Assistant for Windows 8 (links provided). Then install and run them to make sure the stuff you've got will work properly. You may need to upgrade more than just your operating system should you decide to change your OS. There are other issues that may not be entirely evident at first. Stuff like printers, scanners and other external peripherals. Some older hardware may not have ANY drivers. The same goes for other parts inside your computer. My default video chipset built into my motherboard has better support under Windows 7. It completely lacks anything but the most basic support under Windows 8. The same sort of issues can also apply to software. The Upgrade Advisor/Assistant utilities will tell you what will and what won't work and what can work if you get an upgrade from the software vendor. A quick note: You will need to do a clean installation of Win 7 or 8 as neither of these offers a direct upgrade from XP. Before you start planning an upgrade, make sure you have installation media in hand for anything and everything you plan on installing (anything with a disc, anyhow).

Another quick note: Some people I've come across have been intimidated by Windows 8's new start menu (the Interface Formerly Known as Metro). There's nothing to be afraid of. It works pretty much like ANY previous version of Windows - except that it works in Windows 8 mode (the Metro look). It's kind of funny. Many people (maybe even the same ones) moaned and groaned about how they HATED Vista and Windows 7's menu system as it didn't fly out like previous versions of Windows (up to XP). So Microsoft gives them the ultimate in fly out menus and they moan and groan about that. You just can't please SOME people. Sheesh.Someone else mentioned it would be a good idea to maybe visit a computer shop and give Windows 8 a test drive. I'd have to go along with that - except that there are limitations to how much you can do on such systems. They're not yours and it takes more than a few minutes to really grok the new interface. Don't be intimidated by the new interface. It's not so terrible once you get around the fact that it pretty much works the exact same way as it always has - tho, finding the Power switch might be a bit of a challenge. It's no longer on the "start" menu. It's on one of the Windows 8 Charms (icons that pop out of the RIGHT side of the screen) - the one called Settings. Good luck!

I just turn it off by holding down the alt key and pressing F4 a couple of time until a window pops up and says shutdown. Then press enter to shutdown. PS: I do't agree that Windows 8 works pretty much the same way as it always has. Kind of but what I would describe as awkward.

There are a number of things you should consider in making your decision. Of course the age of your computers must be taken into account. If you purchased them when Windows XP was current, that is most likely about 6, 7 or more years ago. Honestly, that is too old for moving to Windows 8 IMHO due to a number of issues. You may have some difficulties finding drivers and most OEM manufacturers (the big boys) will not go back and create drivers for a new OS on hardware they have not sold for 4-5-or more years. If they werre built more recently these issues may not apply to you. You also need to look at functionality. 8 takes advantage of a number of new technologies that just did not exist even a few years ago. It will run without them...just not as well. Of course, Windows 8 is highly optimized aesthetically for a touch screen interface. This leaves it as clunky to use on a non-touch system as Windows XP was clunky on touch-screen. Normally I recommend my customers move to the latest thing (once the bugs are worked out) but not in this case. If you want a TABLET or NEW A-I-O system with the functionality of Windows on a touch friendly GUI...consider 8. It's not bad...just different. But in your case, and that of anyone not getting new hardware, let alone a touch interface, I recommend you move to Windows 7. This will be an easier transition as there is more in common with the XP interface. Either way, remember that Windows 7 nor 8 will do a traditional upgrade to your system. Both will require a fresh reload even when utilizing the "upgrade" versions of your new OS. If you were buying new, my advise would be at least a bit different. Good luck not matter what you deside.

and have heard that in 2014 it might be smart - and free - to turn your xp into a linux by downloading that operating system. Does anyone know more about this - if it's a viable alternative? Because I agree that turning a xp into a 7 or 8 seems a bit silly - pay a bit more and get a whole new computer, if you're going to spend money on the transition.

I suggest going to On-Disk.com and trying their LiveCDs. With those disks, you can boot to them and see if you like the operating system. If you do, the site may have tutorials on how to install them permanently. I like Puppy Linux because it is light and good for banking, because the malware cannot write to a LiveCD if it is closed. The newest version of Puppy even offers to save your files to a flash drive before shutdown.

On-Disk does a terrific job letting you know when promotions or updates are happening to the various distros. LiveCDs will usually always detect your network card and activate internet capability right off the 1st boot; so that is generally not a problem. Even if it is - in the rare event - you can usually solve the problem when installing the software. Linux is a fully modern operating environment, so it does a lot of things automatically - so you may get away with not too much knowledge even at first.

These live CDs very often come with FireFox or Chrome browsers; so if you have used them before, that may not be a learning curve at all. Everything should update during the session, so you have all the latest changes to any application that are on board. I'm not sure - but I'd lay odds many of them have Open Office or even better yet, LibreOffice. So you will have fully functional applications like that to choose from, also.

You can download and burn the LiveCD FREE or order them shipped to you for a nominal S&H fee. The other thing I like about using a LiveCD distro for a candidate to a permanent operating system, is that they are more likely to fit your hardware level, if you have an older or obsolete machine. Some of the new Linux OS are just as powerful when it comes to needing a lot of RAM, so this is a good way to start - IMHO.

Many newbies have told me they liked Ubuntu with the KDE GUI(graphical interface - desktop in other words); but now most seem to like GNOME better. They say it is more like Windows - but now I think there are many distros that run very similar in likeness to Windows now.

I have three machines on Win 8 here as of the end of 2012. None are touchscreen and they work just like XP or Win 7 machines with a start program like Start8 or Classic Shell Startup installed. (Microsoft just stubbed their toe in eliminating their native Start menu.) Get MS's special price now before they raise Win 8 upgrade pricing at the end of January.

There are security advantages to be had with Win 8 that you will need in the future. I did not find drivers to be a problem except for AMD Catalyst which is available as a download as of last week.

I have three machines on Win 8 here as of the end of 2012. None are touchscreen and they work just like XP or Win 7 machines with a start program like Start8 or Classic Shell Startup installed. (Microsoft just stubbed their toe in eliminating their native Start menu.) Get MS's special price now before they raise Win 8 upgrade pricing at the end of January.

There are security advantages to be had with Win 8 that you will need in the future. I did not find drivers to be a problem except for AMD Catalyst which is available as a download as of last week.

I wouldn't take too long to consider this if you are leaning towards Windows 8. The cost at the moment is $39,but it's only until the end of the month (Jan 31, 2013). After that, the price will go way up.

I did not like windows 8 when I first downloaded it, (and almost reinstalled windows 7), but the more I use it the more I like it, and I would not go back to anything else now.

You don't say how the machines are used. (I have a friend that uses a machine to drive quilt machines with specialized software, and that machine is never connected to the Internet so XP works fine and will until the hardware dies.) Assuming your uses include web browsing, yes you should upgrade. You might want to use Windows 7, as it is very stable and has an interface that is more like what you are used to using on XP. It will be supported for some time and can be made secure (as least as any software can be made secure).

If you have legacy software on XP you should check it's usability on either 7 or 8 platforms before deciding which OS you want to use. Also, if you have a standard monitor, not touch screen, you may want to lean to Windows 7.

If you're still running XP, your computers are probably several years old, and may run the newer operating systems, but not very well. If you are going to run these systems you need at least 4 GB of RAM so they run smoothly. Your CPU will probably be OK but if your hard drives are small that may also slow your system to a crawl. It simply may not be worth the trouble to upgrade if you have to upgrade your hardware along with it.

Your best bet may be to stick with what you got until the machine gives out altogether.

Yes, there will no longer be security updates so you will have to be a little careful out on the internet. Consider doing the following:

1) Make sure your firewall is on.2) Make sure you are running a good antivirus. AVG Free is a good choice.3) This next suggestion is a bit of a pain but if you are running your computer on an Administrator Account, consider setting up a Limited or User Account which makes it harder for malware to run on your system. Some programs or operations won't work or update in a limited account but if you right click on the program and select Run As Administrator and sign in under your Administrator password you can run, update, or install a program. You may have to move or copy your documents because the limited account won't let you access My Documents under the Administrator Account.4) Switch your browser to Firefox, Opera, or Chrome if you are still using IE8 which run much faster.

A more drastic option is to install Linux, but you will need Linux programs to replace your Windows programs. You can try out Linux by installing it on a flash drive and booting your computer from the flash drive to see how you like it. It won't affect your Windows installation. There are articles on CNET, PC World or PC Mag that tell you how to do this if you are interested.

I'm making an assumption that probably you did not upgrade your boxes any time recently, so:

Recently I upgraded my old Intel 845 chipset running W2K to a Gigabyte H61 with Intel Core i5 and W7HPx64, and it was the second smartest move I ever made. I must confess the real smartest move I made was reformatting the 845 box and upgrading from XP to W2K -- there is nothing good about XP, and even less in Vista.

Don't go to W8 of any flavour. It is necessary to understand that from W3.x to W8 all releases have grown steadily less configurable, to the extent that W8 has no provision for the old Classic desktop. W7 is the last Windows where you can give system apps a non-white background (aka "paper"), as it still does have the Classic Desktop -- but you can't easily do this in Aero, as there are many undocumented registry entries you need to fiddle with.

W7 is much much more accessible than XP: very few internals are hidden under cleverly diguised unlabelled manholes. On the same line of thought, most of my apps ported (by way of W2K) straight from W98SE. I had to upgrade from Eudora 3.0.6 Lite (16-bit) to Eudora 6.2 (32-bit), but Paint Shop Pro still churgles happily, as do all my Lotus SmartSuite apps; my Canon LiDE 70 flatbed needed only a driver upgrade, mostly to support the new hardware. I'm using K-Meleon 1.6.0 as I type this in... We regularly stream mp4 movies to our PlayStation, the PS3 Media Server transcodes them on the fly using all 4 cores and the machine still has enough capacity to perform lots of complicated long division sums in a fairly large Lotus 123 spreadsheet while streaming.

One downside: you get IE9x64 thrown in, but it's as useful as a wowser in a brewery. Microsoft hasn't finished fully porting all the features across.

There is a learning curve no matter what. If you want to stick with your current machine and it's not connected to the Internet, keep XP. More than likely this is not the case. If it's connected to the Internet, try Ubuntu (or Xubuntu if you have old hardware). If you want to upgrade your hardware, check out the Windows 7 compatibility assistant. If you want to buy a new machine, go with Windows 8. If you go with Win8, look up the keyboard shortcuts. I've found these make it less irksome. Originally I believed Win8 to be unusable. Now I think the Pros outweigh the cons. If you disagree after giving win8 a fair shot, take it back to put on Windows 7. Before anything, back up everything if you haven't already.

I have three computers. Two desktops and a laptop. I have XP Home on the older desktop, 7 Professional on the new desktop, and 8 on my laptop. I never thought I would hear myself say this but both 7 and 8 are a big improvement over XP. When I built my new desktop I actually installed XP on it and switched to Windows 7 64bit Professional because XP 32bit would only recognize 4 of my 8 gigs of RAM. It took me awhile to get used to the new system but once I did there was no going back. The graphics are way better and it is easier to navigate once you get used to it. I have come to really love it. Windows 8 is pretty much Windows 7 (minus XP mode) with some "touchy" features that only work if you have a touchscreen device.

You will need to make sure that your computers can run with Windows 7 or 8. There are minimum requirements and Microsoft can tell you what you need in the way of hardware (processor, RAM). Go to their website and they will assess your computers using the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor. If everything is good to go give serious consideration to upgrading to Windows 7.

You will probably need to do a clean, stand alone installation. The upgrade from XP to 7 has problems. If you were to go from Vista to 7 (I did it for a friend) it's easy, but XP to 7 is somewhat of a nightmare. If you decide to make the change run Belarc on your computers prior to installing the new OS so you know what programs you will have to reinstall. Remember to backup anything you don't want to lose (music, documents, photos, etc) on some kind of portable storage (USB drive, external hard drive, etc.). And lastly, be prepared to spend some time doing this. It takes time, patience, and possibly a few aspirin tablets. Good luck!

For my 2 cents, I would NOT upgrade an existing computer. Windows 7 and 8 require much more resources and if XP works for you, count your blessings. I had to buy a new computer recently, and opted for one of the few remaining Win7 machines. I just didn't want the learning curve associated with Win8; I might as well buy a Mac if I were OK with a steep learning curve. Having a few weeks of experience with 7, I find there is a bit of learning needed even with that. I'm so glad I didn't go for Win8; my wife and I wouldn't be speaking to each other if I had. If you have several Windows machines, it's even worse unless you convert them all to the same OS.

As far as Microsoft support for XP is concerned, what do you think you'd be missing? Their support sucks anyway.

I agree, old machines shouldn't be upgraded. New ones can be bought now days for $400 with 4 cpu's and 4 gb of ram, don't waste you time and money on an old one. Also, don't think you can sell if either, no one wants an old computer now days.

If your computer has the hardware needed to run Windows 7 64 Bit, than I would upgrade. If your PC is only able to run a 32 Bit operating system, then consider staying with XP for now or perhaps go with Windows 7 32 Bit.Personally, I would stay away from Windows 8, unless you have a touch screen machine of some kind.

HI Jack,In a nut shell: The big reason is that IE7 will no longer be supported by many web sites (this is the trend... i hope you have IE8. it will work fine for a while. but microsoft is pushing IE9)IE 9 will not work with XP.(not even sp3). if you go with windows 7 you will automatically have upgraded to IE9 If you don't use any of the computers for the internet then XP is well worth keeping on these machines.(depending on what you do) ie: i do video rendering on 3 of my computers w/o the net... XP is less of a power hog with all the bells and whistles turn'd off. the fourth one is just for ms office. Do you have newer computer? (within 3 years) windows 8 might a better option for you, but it does not have much of anything like the XP did. in my opinion its just a glass'd over OS like in a andriod / Iphone. personally i would take windows 7.!! stay away from VISTA!! thats the long and short of it. hope this helps w/o going into a l-o-n-g winded reply.

We have four computers running XP. But, upgrading to the latest and greatest from Microsoft would also mean new software, printers, scanners and even replacing our FAX machine. Most of those are not supported by WIN 7 or 8. I know the handwriting is on the wall but I have to keep all of our computers somewhat similar to support my wife's law practice.

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